The prologue of John’s Gospel describes Jesus as the agent of creation, the source of life, and the light of mankind who took on human form to dwell among people.  Everything that exists finds its source in Him, and the life He brings is the light humanity desperately needs. From the first verses, John makes clear that Jesus is unmatched in identity and authority. This text presses a personal question: will we receive Him? To believe in Jesus is to welcome the light, to trust that in Him we truly see God and truly find life. 

 

Put It into Practice: Each morning this week, read John 1:1–5 slowly before checking your phone or starting your day. Ask God to help you receive Jesus not just as information, but as the living Word who speaks into your life right now. 

 

Day 1 John 1:1-5

Reflect: What does the connection to Genesis 1 reveal about Jesus’ authority and identity? John says life and light are found in Him. How are “life” and “light” different from mere existence or knowledge? 

Apply: How is Jesus the spoken expression of God to you? Darkness has not overcome the light. Where do you see that tension playing out in our world today? What area of your life feels dark now? 

Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for Jesus, the Word made flesh – the eternal light that shines through the darkness. Help me to walk in Your light, letting Your life shine through me, never to be overcome by the darkness of this world.

 

Day 2 John 1:6-18

Reflect: What does v. 8 teach us about influence and identity? Why is it often hardest to recognize God when He comes close? What does it mean to be given the right to become children of God? 

Apply: Define grace and truth. Why do we often separate those two qualities in our relationships? Are you relating to God more as a distant authority or as a Father who has adopted you? Why?

Pray: Father God, thank You that I may call You Father, because I am Your child, through Jesus Christ my Lord. Shine more of His light into my heart, so that I come to know You more and to love You better each day. 

 

Day 3 John 1:19-28

Reflect: Why were the religious leaders concerned with labeling John? What does John’s response about himself reveal about humility? What does it mean to “prepare the way” for the Lord today?

Apply: Where do you feel pressure to be something impressive instead of simply being faithful? How might you decrease so that Christ increases in your conversations and leadership?

Pray:  Lord God, thank You for the witness of Your Word in Christ Jesus. As with John the Baptist, I pray that I may decrease and Jesus may increase, until He is in all in my life.

 

Day 4 John 1:29-34

Reflect: Why does John introduce Jesus as the Lamb of God before highlighting His miracles or teaching? What is implied? The Spirit descends and remains on Jesus. Why is that detail significant?  

Apply: John moves from uncertainty about Jesus to conviction. How have you experienced or seen that? How can you grow in confident testimony rather than private belief? How do you see Jesus?  

Pray: Lord Jesus, You take away the sin of the world. I believe You are the Son of God, sent to bring light and salvation. Help me to humbly point others to You. Fill me with Your Spirit and guide my heart.

 

Day 5 John 1:35-51

Reflect: Jesus’ first recorded words in John are, “What do you want?” Why does He begin there? If He asked you that question, how would you reply? What does this text teach us about evangelism?  

Apply: Who first told you about Jesus? Have you become that person for someone else? What skepticism or doubt might Jesus be inviting you to bring into the light instead of hiding?  

Pray:  Holy God, thank You for the example of John the Baptist, who pointed people to Jesus, and for the two disciples who discovered he held the answer to every aching question they had. May I not only follow Jesus but point others to Him, in Whom are the words of eternal life.